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Staffordshire Bull Terrier

A muscular, smooth-coated dog, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier combines both 'bull' and 'terrier' in his physical appearance and gives the impression of strength and agility. Adult dogs stand at 36-41cm, and adult males weigh 13-17kg and females 11-15.4kg. The short, smooth coat comes in red, fawn, white, black or blue, brindle, or any of these with white.

Overview

A muscular, smooth-coated dog, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier combines both 'bull' and 'terrier' in his physical appearance and gives the impression of strength and agility. Adult dogs stand at 36-41cm, and adult males weigh 13-17kg and females 11-15.4kg. The short, smooth coat comes in red, fawn, white, black or blue, brindle, or any of these with white.

Origin

The origins of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier can be traced back to the 1800s when bull and bear baiting was outlawed. A new 'sport' was devised – dog fighting – and so Bulldogs and Terriers were bred together to produce the Bull and Terrier, from which the Staffordshire Bull Terrier descends. Popular with all classes, including the Victorian working class, the 'Staffie' was often raised in small, cramped conditions with large families – to which his traditionally good temperament with people of all ages can be attributed.

Personality

With people, a well-bred, well-socialised Staffordshire Bull Terrier should have an impeccable temperament and be especially good-natured (if not somewhat boisterous!) with people. With other dogs or animals, however, Staffordshire Bull Terriers can be less than friendly, though a great deal depends on his early socialisation and training. Some Staffordshire Terriers live perfectly happily with other dogs and cats; others cannot be walked off-lead in areas where they might meet another dog. Early and ongoing socialisation is essential.

Health

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier dog breed is generally a very hardy breed, with few breed specific related problems. As with many breeds, they can suffer some hereditary eye disorders and so eye testing is recommended.

Exercise

At least an hour's exercise is needed daily for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier along with plenty of play and games. Given the chance, Staffordshire Bull Terriers can excel in dog sports such as agility. Many are fine with other dogs, but some are dog-aggressive.If your dog is less friendly, do ensure he is suitably restrained and does not make a nuisance of himself.

Nutrition

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Grooming

A low-maintenance breed, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier's short, smooth coat needs very little attention, with a weekly brush being more than sufficient.